Deacon’s spiritual support for fisherfolk

Former Harbour Master Richard Alleyne, now a deacon at St Michael’s Cathedral, has established a chaplaincy programme for Barbados’ maritime sector, conducting monthly services at fishing communities across the island.

The initiative, which rotates through the island’s various fishing complexes every third Thursday, aims to provide spiritual support to fishermen, vendors, and fish processors – a community Alleyne describes as facing unique challenges.

“Fishermen, fisherfolk, you are a special people,” Alleyne said during the service yesterday at the Berinda Cox Fish Market.

“Jesus recognised this. At least four of his disciples were fishermen,” he added.

The programme began at the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex before moving to Oistins, Christ Church, with plans to visit all remaining ports.

Alleyne is considering increasing the frequency of visits to build deeper connections with the fishing community.

Empty nets

During his sermons, Alleyne drew on Luke 5:1-11, where Jesus calls His first disciples after they return from an unsuccessful night of fishing. He uses the passage to address the realities fishermen face: exhaustion, empty nets, depleted supplies and the pressure to return to sea.

“You’ve just come back from a fishing trip. A few have no fish. Food and fuel nearly gone,” he told congregants, inviting them to imagine the biblical scene.

“And someone tell you to go back out even though you have not had a chance to wash down your boat. What would you do?”

The parallels resonate with modern challenges: extended trips seeking catches large enough to cover costs, families depending on uncertain income and vendors awaiting unpredictable arrivals.

“This story is about perseverance, courage and faith. It is not one for the faint-hearted. You can become seasick, unable to eat and have your courage and strength and endurance stretched to their limits,” Alleyne said.

Beyond spiritual guidance, he emphasised environmental stewardship, urging fishers to avoid dumping plastics overboard, protect near-shore waters and ensure sustainability by allowing fish to mature before harvesting.

Safeguarding

“You are reminded of your role in assisting and safeguarding the part of the blue economy to which you relate,” he said.

The deacon also acknowledged vendors and processors who shared in the industry’s volatility.

“I can imagine your disappointment when the fishermen come home with small catches or none at all,” he said, recognising their struggles with fluctuating prices and disappointed customers.

Services featured hymns including God And God Alone and Lead Us Heavenly Father, Lead Us,

performed by vocalist Hilda Roberts.

Alleyne concluded the service with a traditional maritime blessing: “As you go to sea, I wish you fair winds and following seas.” (DDS)

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